Today we’d like to introduce you to SJ McMillan.
SJ, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, my mother hosted many events in our home. We were the go-to-house for any and all occasions. It was a chore back then and I unknowingly fell in love with event planning.
Professionally, I studied talent development and a portion of its principles focuses on learning about the motivations, preferences, and perspectives of one’s coworkers. Knowing these components can help teams work better together while fostering a deeper understanding of one another.
After having the opportunity to create community and throw events at my workplace, I realized I stumbled upon a new passion. I discovered that I wanted to share these spaces that evoke a sincere sense of belonging and inclusion with everyone. That passion drove me to start Fall Into Paradise, an event company, to connect with my community in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, starting with this colorful and vibrant group made perfect sense. I strive to provide an opportunity for people to enjoy present fellowship and try new things around town with a meetup called The Queerdom of Atlanta and post at least four activities monthly.
Having the opportunity to bring my enthusiasm for people and events together has been an incredible journey. I look forward to meeting many new friends and creating epic memories.
I also have a personal blog on Youtube called SJ’s Advys that I recently started. I hope to inspire others to be themselves by embracing their weirdness and asserting their self-worth. Videos will be posted weekly.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road can get a little bumpy at times. As with any brand, setting yourself apart and engaging your audience is what it’s all about. I do that by attending other events, networking, and small focus group meetings with my members. Our vibe is very casual and I encourage collaboration between all members – everyone has a voice.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Fall Into Paradise – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Fall Into Paradise is an event company catering to inclusion and belonging of all people who are interested in meeting new people, trying new things, and learning from one another. Mutual respect, self-awareness, and empathy is the foundation of our organization. We run a meetup for 21+ LGBTQ+ individuals in Atlanta and the surrounding area called The Queerdom of Atlanta. Events ranging from concerts, meditation, axe throwing, and many more take place at least four times a month.
I’m most proud of the members and the little family we’ve created. It can be hard to find genuine people to spend your time with and our group makes it easy.
There is a human tendency to surround oneself with others how have the same style, interests, background, etc.. Fall Into Paradise prides itself in bringing people from all backgrounds, faiths, and economic standing together, We all agree that respect is of upmost importance.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the nonstop happenings around town. It makes it really easy to gain a better understanding of a neighborhood or area when one is enveloped by its people. I’ve much more of Atlanta to explore before I make a decision on what I don’t like.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 6789613850
- Email: queerdomatl@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queerdomatl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fallintoparadisetravels/
Image Credit:
@Joki_15
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